Alfalfa is a leafy plant that farmers grow as food for livestock like horses, cattle, and sheep. Its deep roots can reach many feet underground, helping it survive droughts that would kill some other crops. Alfalfa also helps enrich farmland for future plantings.

Farmers have grown alfalfa for over 2,000 years, making it one of humanity's oldest cultivated crops. After cutting it several times each growing season, they bundle the dried plants into bales of hay. Dairy farmers prize it because cows that eat alfalfa can produce more milk.

You might recognize alfalfa from salads or sandwiches, where people sometimes use its crisp sprouts. These tiny shoots taste mild and crunchy, adding texture to food.